Useful Tips
Definition of a spot
According to the dictionary, the definition of a spot is something that is different in colour or texture from its surrounding area of which it is a part;a blemish, blot, mark, smudge or speck. Definition of 'Stain' according to the dictionary is something that discolours, marks or colours with a permanent pigment and can colour and penetrate substances by attaching chemically.
Liquid spills and pet accidents
Absorb as much of the spill as possible with a clean, white absorbent towel or tissues. (Standing on the cloth or paper tissues can help absorption). Once the entire spill is absorbed, apply a generous amount of the envirodri MicroSponges directly onto the area and leave for 24 hours, or until dry and remove by vacuuming. If some of the spill remains, use envirodri Liquid Spot Removerand repeat procedure as above with the Microsponges. If you are unsure what the spot or spill is, apply envirodri Microsponges then brush in all directions with the envirodrimachine, hand brush or fingers and vacuum the now dirty Microsponges up. Most spills are removed in this first attempt.
For further information on Envirodri Microsponges, please click here.
What are permanent stains?
Permanent stains by definition are impossible to remove and are created by substances such as toilet cleaners, iodine, bleach, fruit drink, instant coffee, curry powders, food colouring, cigarette burns and permanent ink. A little word to the wise - be prepared for old stains to be more difficult to remove.
In general
The quicker you get to a spot or spill, the greater your chance of successfully removing it. Try to contain spillages as quickly as possible by scooping up the majority of the solids with a spoon and absorbing the liquids with paper or cloth towels. Some spots and spills can permanently stain carpets immediately and cannot be removed, however, a quick reaction can minimise the damage. Never pour the liquid Spot Remover directly onto a spot or spill as this will just dissolve the spore and drive it deeper into the carpet backing, where it will wick-back to the surface when it dries the following day. Always apply to a clean cloth or towel.
For further information on Envirodri Spot Remover, please click here.
Understanding how the ‘envirodri system’ works on carpet
Can I use envirodri microsponges on any carpet?
Yes, the Microsponges are safe (and recommended) to use on natural fibres (such as Wool, Sisal and Seagrass) or synthetic fibres (such as Nylon, Polypropylene and including all those with ‘built-in’ Stain Resistant technology).
My carpet pile looks ‘flat and lifeless’. Will the system help?
Yes, the ‘Gen 4’ machines are designed with two, contra-rotating brushes that lift and revive the matted carpet fibres. Different sets of brushes are available dependent upon the level of soiling/ flattening, type of fibre and/or type of construction.
How long do I need to stay off the carpet after cleaning?
You don’t! In fact people can actually walk on the carpet during the cleaning process, so no ‘down-time’. In a hotel for example, a vacant room can be cleaned and in use immediately afterwards (thus saving costly, lost revenue which can happen when ‘wet’ cleaning). In a domestic situation the benefits are obvious - ‘no wet carpets!’
I had my carpets cleaned with ‘envirodri’ and was impressed by the fragrance, what is it?
It may have been either ‘Green Tea’ fragrance (the most popular citrus kind of smell) or ‘White Tea’ fragrance (with a fresher, more linen kind of smell). Certain premises (such as restaurants or ‘allergy’ departments in hospitals) prefer ‘un-fragranced’ and this option is available too.
Will my carpet get dirty after cleaning more quickly now?
No, because there is no ‘sticky’ residue (which can be left by detergents) left in the carpet. In fact, the carpet will stay cleaner for longer after cleaning than many other methods commonly used.
Can we purchase the equipment for our own use?
Yes, anyone can purchase the equipment, although it is generally bought for the commercial market.
Is ‘envirodri’ safe, as I have pets and children to consider?
‘envirodri’ is totally safe. It meets and exceeds worldwide safety criteria. It is used daily in hospitals, hotels, care homes, schools, colleges, nurseries and veterinary practices. The products used are 100% compliant and are additionally certified by the WoolSafe and Green Seal organisations. Note: As with ALL products, some people are naturally allergic to certain chemicals found in even ‘common’ hand soaps or washing-up liquids; as such these people should wear gloves (if using the system) or avoid being around while the cleaning is being undertaken.
I had the carpets cleaned with ‘envirodri’ Dry Carpet Cleaner and noticed some of the product was left in the pile. Is this bad?
Not at all, in fact those ‘Microsponges’ left behind act as ‘dried out, absorbent sponges’. They continue to keep the carpet smelling fresh and are more absorbent than the surrounding carpet fibres (even wool). So any future ‘spills’ will be absorbed into the ‘Microsponges’ not the carpet pile or backing. They are removed over time by your regular, routine vacuuming.
Other questions
If you have any questions not answered above, please do contact us and we will be happy to answer any you may have.
